Here in Oregon, it’s hard to play favorites when it comes to our state parks, because, in our humble opinion, each and every one of these destinations is extraordinary. However, Travel + Leisure recently released their roundup of the 50 Best State Parks Around the U.S., and Oswald West State Park was their pick for Oregon! We certainly support this choice for the best state park in Oregon. Oswald West State Park is an absolute gem; boasting a beautiful beach, its own temperate rainforest, incredible geographical wonders, and unparalleled scenic beauty.

Despite what you may think, this isn't Hawaii.
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This is Oswald West State Park, and it's in Oregon.
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There are many notable features in this beautiful park: rugged beaches, lush forests, hidden caves, and dazzling vistas.
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Let's begin in the forest.
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There are numerous hiking trails within this 2,484-acre park, offering an immersive experience of this unique, temperate coastal rainforest.
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While on the trails, you'll discover low-growing ferns, native plants and berries, and massive western red cedar, western hemlock, and Sitka Spruce trees.
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It's a thriving temperate rainforest -- right here in Oregon.
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The beaches at Oswald West State Park are equally extraordinary, with Short Sands Beach feeling like something out of a fairy tale.
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Short Sands Beach feels like a world unto itself; it lies sheltered in a cove blanketed by verdant green forests and dark basalt and sandstone cliffs.
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Obsidian caverns can be found along the shores -- sea caves waiting to be explored.
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Tide pools dot the sandy shores, and beachcombers will discover all sorts of oceanic treasures: sea stars, sea stacks, and beautiful seashells.
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Of course, for those looking to have a classic Oregon beach day, this destination is also a perfect place to relax and soak up the views.
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Oswald West State Park is an Oregon treasure that's just waiting to be explored! Once you do, you'll see why it's hailed as the best state park in Oregon.
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Oswald West State Park truly is a wondrous place that every Oregonian should make a point to visit!

For an adventure in another amazing Oregon State Park, be sure to check out Fort Stevens State Park, where you can camp near an abandoned ghost ship!

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Oswald West State Park, Arch Cape, OR 97102, USA